Stompin' Tom Connors has died at age 77

Canadian country-folk singer Stompin' Tom Connors, whose toe-tapping musical spirit and fierce patriotism established him as one of Canada's strongest cultural icons, has died, his friend and promoter said Wednesday night. He was 77.

Brian Edwards said Connors passed away from natural causes at his home. The musician, rarely seen without his signature black cowboy hat and stomping cowboy boots, was best known for songs like "The Hockey Song," Sudbury Saturday Night" and "Bud the Spud."

Connors knew his health was declining and had posted a message on his website a few days ago, saying Canada kept him "inspired with its beauty, character, and spirit."

Connors garnered a devoted following through straight-ahead country-folk tunes that drew inspiration from his extensive travels and focused on the everyman.